5-Aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) is a naturally occurring compound used in photodynamic therapy. In this trial, it is used as part of radiodynamic therapy for brain tumors. When taken orally, this medication accumulates in cancer cells and becomes activated by radiation, helping to target and destroy tumor cells more effectively. This makes the cancer cells more sensitive to radiation treatment while aiming to minimize damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

Radiodynamic therapy (RDT) is a combination treatment that uses both 5-Aminolevulinic acid and radiation therapy. This approach combines the medication with targeted radiation to create a potentially more effective treatment for recurrent glioblastoma, a type of brain cancer.

Glioblastoma – A type of brain cancer that forms in the supportive tissue of the brain and typically grows rapidly. It begins with symptoms such as headaches, personality changes, nausea, and seizures. The tumor forms from star-shaped brain cells called astrocytes and can appear in any part of the brain. Glioblastoma often creates increased pressure in the brain as it grows, leading to various neurological symptoms. The tumor can affect different brain functions depending on its location, including movement, speech, thinking, and sensation.